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Tony ZANOTELLI Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Tony ZANOTELLI
Sandy Faccini Berry
April 5, 2024
I first met Tony in the 7th grade at Portola Jr High School and all through El Cerrito High School. He was always a fun loving guy and one of the best dancers in our school. Shortly after I saw him after he had been in the service. Then again as he was a police officer at RPD as he worked there with my husband. Many fond memories.
Jamie Lorraine
July 6, 2011
I cant believe it has already been a year. I miss you so much uncle tony. Everytime i think about you i cry and wish you were here to talk to. I know you are in a safe place. I love you.
Jamie Lorraine
Aunt Marie
September 28, 2010
You are in my thoughts every day, along with all the family..I think since your passing I've cried more then ever before.When I sit and think of you I cry and miss you.. I'm the last of the Original ZANOTELLI FAMILY and feel very much alone.. Loving you missing you and send my love to the younger Zanotelli Families and there loved ones...
Love U Tony, Your Loving Aunt Marie Zanotelli Rackley (Uncle Bob)
Jamie Howe
September 26, 2010
Hi uncle tony, this is your goddaughter. I miss you so much and I wish you were still here with us today. I miss your big smile and bear hugs.
Love Jamie Lorraine.
Nancy Becker-Branum
September 10, 2010
I knew Tony from highschool, he was always smiling and such a wonderfulman, I just moved back to Calif and my hear goes out to his family.
robin slavik
August 31, 2010
I met Tony with my water ski group in the early Clear Lake days, what a Personality, and coincidence that he turned out to be a local motor man in my home town. Tony, you are missed.
Doug Krathwohl
August 31, 2010
We always looked forward to seeing Tony and talking with him, he was a live wire and a breath of fresh air. Our sincere condolences to the Zanotelli family.
joe hennessey
July 26, 2010
TONY Z a really great COP and really good person. Not always easy to be both but you did it TONY. Very proud to have served with you and to be with you at the last KMA358 lunch. Sincere condolences.
July 25, 2010
RIP my friend
July 25, 2010
I hope Tony realized just how many lives he touched - personally and professionally; such a tribute to his life and his family. Memories never die; he will live in our hearts forever.
July 24, 2010
To the Zanotelli Family, my most sincere sympathy to all ! Sgt.Tony was my supervisor as a Police assistant for RPD! He rode his motorcycle to cover me on more than one occasion(smile) He never complained,but insisted that I not hug the seniors while in uniform! I learned to only hug him in the hall of RPD(smile). I shall never forget his kindness to me during my 13 yrs at RPD (1986-1999) He was as the young people say (a cool dude) and always a precious gentleman. I am blessed for having my life cross with Sgt.Zano! I remain in Douglasville,Ga. a forever friend of Lt.Toni's life memories.
Chris Thorsen
July 21, 2010
RIP Tony, prayers to your family. You will be greatly missed by all those you served and served with.
Barbara Allen
July 21, 2010
I have not talked to Tony since my days as a waitress at Andy's Oak Pit (30 years ago) when my sister and I served the motor cops that would come in for lunch. Although I don't remember the others, I do remember Tony. Tony left such and impression on us. He was a great person always had a smile on his face. He was also very protective over us. Not because of who we were, but because of who he was. He made everyone he met feel special. Rest in peace Tony your memory lives on. God bless your family and friends.
Mark Williams
July 18, 2010
Tony-
You will truly be missed my friend. Thank you for your leadership, guidance, and mentorship. I will never forget you and everything you did for me while at RPD. You will live on forever in my heart.
Mark "Skip" Williams #1213
Shawn Maples
July 17, 2010
I met Tony in the early 1970’s walking the halls of the Richmond Police Department with my father and have always looked up to him as one of the greatest roll models a police officer could ever have. Tony was always a friend to me and my family and always there when I needed support or a great laugh. Tony will always be remembered by the members of the Maples family. RIP Tony
Robyn Taylor-Edwards
July 16, 2010
I will never forget the wonderful vacations we had in Clear Lake and Tony's patience in helping me & the kids learn to waterski. Those were great memories and I will cherish them forever. We will miss you Tony!
John & Eileen Brooks
July 16, 2010
We extend our deepest sympathy to the Zanotelli family. We have fond memories of Tony, his was a life well-lived. He touched so many of us and will be greatly missed. Rest in peace,
Michael Baeta
July 16, 2010
When I would teach at the Police Academy's, I would preach the the 10 % rule, that is 10 % of the police officers do 90 per cent of the real police work. Tony was a real 10% er....I worked with Tony in my young days as a Deputy Sheriff in the West end of CCC and we became friends that respected each other. God bless Tony and his family, God will reward you...Sgt Michael "Mickey" Baeta, CCCSO (ret'd)
Jim McMillan
July 15, 2010
My sincere condolence to the family of Tony (Zano) Zanotelli, A officer and a gentleman.
Jim McMillan
Denny Trujillo
July 15, 2010
Brenda, the Zanotelli family and friends. I am sadden at the loss of the Z-Man. Tony was an original gangster when I came to work for RPD in 1973, even thou Tony started in 1970. Tony could light up a room as soon as he entered or people knew Tony was approaching just by the sound of the howling of the crowds excitement, "Z's, coming". Z Man my brother, I will miss you. Bless the Zanotelli family. Tony you always called me dirt. (inside joke)
your loving friend
denny t.
July 15, 2010
To the family and friends of Tony. We work at epic-care which is the oncology center in which Tony received his treatments. Although we only knew him for a short time and even though he was battling this terrible illness, he always came in with a positive attitude and a great sense of humor and always put a smile on our faces.
Our prayers are with the Zanotelli family. May the lord help you through this trying time.
Tania Jolivette and Leti G.
@ epic-care,
Antioch, Ca.
Stan NIccolls
July 15, 2010
Tony may not have been the first person you met when you came to work for RPD, but he always found you and made you feel like a valued member of the dep't. In the 80's he had an Acura Legend with the license plate "B12OWN1". It couldn't have been more true. Tony is truly a legend at RPD. Rest in peace, we will miss you!
Joe Barela
July 15, 2010
My memory of Tony was from 1973 to 1989 when I was a Reserve Officer. Tony always treated you with respect, because that's the kind of officer he was. His humor was as if knew for years. Outstanding person and Officer. He will be missed.
Christie Holt
July 15, 2010
I had the pleasure of knowing Tony from the early 1980's through 2000. He was a good friend of my late husband, Hal Holt. They shared many good times and difficult times in the city of Richmond over the years. He was always quick to smile, laugh, have a good time, help out in the community and, most importantly, come up with creative solutions to problems. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Mike Barkhurst
July 15, 2010
Tony worked as a narcotics undercover officer in the early 1970's when I had the opportunity to work with him thru Contra Costa Sheriff's Office. I will never forget his great memory, sense of humor, and canny ability at role playing. I must mention, he impressed me as a great cop and good friend. I have thought of him often. Miss you my friend, may the Lord take good care of you.
Chris(topher) Cook
July 14, 2010
My fondest memory of Tony comes from 35 years ago... I was 5 years old and Tony used to work motors at a busy intersection between my house and school. Every morning my friends and I looked forward to meeting up with Tony at that intersection so he could "radar" us racing up and down the block before finally making sure we got across the street safely and on to school... We all love you Tony, you will be missed.
Ken Greco
July 14, 2010
Tony was a cops cop, I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to have worked with such a legend for eight years at RPD. I have worked with some of the finest in law enforcement over the past 30 years, but I have never worked with a guy who could get so many things done for a police association as Zano...now that I am retired, my retirement is that much better as a result of Tony's skills and abilities as our RPOA President - God Bless you Tony!
Hector Esparza
July 14, 2010
Tony will always be an iconic figure at the Richmond Police Department. His incredible personality trancends many generations at RPD, from the Garfield era to this very day. He had that special charming quallity that made everyone he met instantaneously consider him a friend. He owned every room he ever walked into. Tony is one of a handful of people I wholeheartedly admire. Thank you Tony for your support and kind words; thank you for always making us laugh; and most of all thank you for your friendship. Rest well Tony.
Chris Cook
July 14, 2010
It was my pleasure to work with Tony at RPD for nearly 3 decades, and to call him my friend. My children grew up visiting him at the corner of 26th/Rheem, where he'd park his motor or his patrol car, and wait for all the kids from Ford School to cross safely on their way home. One of my boys remembers he would "radar check" them as they ran to school in the morning. He was not just a good and gracious man, but a fine and dedicated asset to the community he served. I cannot mourn his passing when his life was so worthy of celebration. My prayers and thoughts are with his family..may you find peace in the memories he left. Rest easy, Tony, we'll miss you so much.
Chris Cook (#936)RPD Communication(Ret)
Rich Garcia
July 14, 2010
Tony was a real live hero. He served his country and then moved on to become a Richmond Police Officer and served the City for 30 plus years. I went to El Cerrito High with Tony and after my service time I went to the CHP the same year Tony went to Richmond. Tony was a great guy and even a greater Police Officer. I will miss Tony and I too wish he would have lived a long life and enjoyed a longer retirement with his family and friends. Tony, rest in peace brother.
July 14, 2010
Tony was one of the GREAT ones. Tony and Brenda were a couple made to be together. We love you Tony. We love you Brenda. Peace for you both
Jennifer Kilpatrick
Jimmy Dunham
July 14, 2010
RIP Tony. My best to the Zanotelli family.
Gary Miner (retired RPD)
July 14, 2010
Another legend of Richmond PD sadly has moved on. Tony and I both attended El Cerrito High, served our country in Vietnam and became Richmond Cops. Tony was the President of the Police Officers association and I was the VP, although Tony was the true leader of the RPOA. There wasn't a better looking motorcop ever. He was a leader and a role model to all the rookies. He always had that cock-eyed smile and boy could he tell a good story. My memories of the days on the golf course playing with Tony are some of the best. May you rest in peace Tony. I wish you would have had more years to enjoy your retirement with Brenda.
Erica Worley
July 14, 2010
Tony was a great man! I am blessed to have known him. My prayers for peace are with the family.
Maggie Parks
July 14, 2010
You will always live in our hearts and prayers. I love you Tony and will never forget you!
Ron_Laura Carlock
July 14, 2010
We are deeply sadden to hear of Tony.
Our thoughts and prayers - to the Zanotelli family.
Tony was a great guy, he gave 'it all' to his family and work - he lived life to the fullest.
Remember the good times - and may those memories keep you strong.
Pat Pausner
July 14, 2010
Zano, you were the greatest! I'm glad to read how full your family life was, how great a life you lived. You are missed by me and all those who learned so much from you.
July 13, 2010
Zano will always be remembered and respected for his many contributions to the Richmond Police Department. May he rest in peace.
Lee Fletcher, Vallejo, CA
Jilda Fairhurst
July 13, 2010
Brenda, we are so sad of the passing of Tony. He was a great guy. We have so many memories of him. I'm sure he is with Gary right now. May the memories you have of him last you a life time, We are all here if you should need anything. We love you. The Fairhurst Family.
Kevin & Allison Martin
July 13, 2010
To the man that worked wonders, even without trying.....god bless you "T"
Roger Burch
July 13, 2010
So sorry to hear of Tony's passing, our thoughts & prayers are with you at this time Zanotelli Family.
July 13, 2010
I was sad to hear of Tonys passing, I enjoyed working with him, and considered
him a friend. John Megonnigil APD
Barbara Zeppa
July 13, 2010
We have lost a warm, kind, funny, wonderful man. This earth won't be the same without you Tony. My sincerest sympathy to Brenda and to the rest of the family. May God's peace be with you and may His grace help you thru this difficult time.
Lori Encalada-Trinidad
July 13, 2010
Many good memories from Clear Lake. He will be missed by everyone who had the good fortune of knowing him. GOD BLESS YOU TONY.
JOHN HUGEL
July 13, 2010
TONY ZANOTELLI WAS THE PRESIDENT OF THE RICHMOND POLICE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION FOR MANY YEARS. HE WAS THE REASON WHY WORKING CONDITIONS AND RETIREMENT BENEFITS OF OFFICERS ROSE SO HIGH DURING THAT PERIOD. HE DIDN’T ACCOMPLISH THIS JUST BY WRITING LETTERS, SENDING E-MAILS OR ATTENDING MEETINGS. HE DID IT BY SITTING DOWN WITH A CITY OFFICIAL AT A COFFEE SHOP IN THE MORNING OR AN AFTERNOON AT THE GOLF COURSE. HIS WORD WAS MORE IMPORTANT THEN HIS TITLE AS RPOA PRESIDENT. AS A RESULT, I THINK MORE AGREEMENTS WERE PROBABLY MADE WITH A HAND SHACK, BEFORE ANYTHING WAS EVER WRITTEN ON PAPER. TONY, YOU WILL BE MISSED AND NEVER FORGOTTEN. I HAVE A FEELING, THAT WHEN IT IS MY TURN TO GO, I’LL FIND YOU ORGANIZING THE RICHMOND POLICE ANGEL ASSOCIATION. JOHN HUGEL (HUGGLES), RICHMOND P.D., RETIRED.
Jake Orton
July 13, 2010
In the short time I knew Mr. Zanotelli he left quite an impression on me. I was one of the ultrasound techs that met Tony in his last few months. What got me about him was eventhough he was on the down, his attitude was still so positive! He shared a few of his life exeriences which truly touched me! Myself along with the other ultrasound staff here @ Sutter Delta send out condolences to Mr. Zanotelli's family.
Rest in peace Tony!
Michael Smith
July 13, 2010
July 13,2010
Tony was a great guy who enjoyed life to the fullest. My hearts sadden at his passing. He was an outstanding Police Officer, Narcotics Officer. Motorcycle Officer, and Supervisor. I am proud to say I knew him since 1970 as a young Officer.
Alvin Parker
July 13, 2010
I worked with and for Tony for serveral years. He was a great Man and Supervisor. I enjoyed knowing him and working for him. he will truely be missed.
rest in Peace Tony.
Ron Svien
July 13, 2010
A lot of great golf memories of Tony from the old days at Franklin Canyon and Richmond CC. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We miss you Tony!
Lew Abramson
July 13, 2010
Tony was one of a kind. He helped, amused, and inspired many. He served his community and his fellow officers.
Dennis Nizzi
July 13, 2010
I went through the police academy with Tony. He was the funniest and most liked in the class. I worked on Richmond PD with him for 4 years and he was a great cop. My condolences to the family.
Robert-Barbara Flores
July 13, 2010
Barbara and I were saddened to hear of Tony's passing. However, we are greatful for knowing this extraordinary man who served our country in Vietnam, served the citizens of Richmond with honor and dedication. To Tony's family, he had many, many friends from all over California with his dedicated work through PORAC and RPD. He will be missed and may your sorrow ease knowing that he is no longer suffering. I will walk for Tony proudly at the American Cancer Society Walk for Life this Saturday. God Bless Tony and his family.
July 13, 2010
I'm so sorry for your loss. I had the honor of knowing Tony through summer vacations with Sgt. Joe Silva and he was by far one of the nicest guys a person could hang out with. You will be truly missed Tony!! RIP Sabrina
Gary Darby
July 13, 2010
Tony was a great guy and tremendous contribution to mankind. I worked with, and for, Tony from 1977-1982 at RPD. Great guy and a real cop's cop. And, he could name ANY oldie either Artist to song/song to artist. God Bless Tony and his family. We will meet again.
Fred Cavalli
July 13, 2010
Tony was a good cop and had a sense of humor that stayed with him; even during his battle with his illness. I'm so glad we had a few minutes recently to talk of "old times" and laugh a little.
My thoughts are with Tony's family and friends. RIP Tony.
Gia Martinez
July 13, 2010
Haven't seen Tony since I left RPD in 1995 but I have a lot of fond memories. My prayers go out to the family ~ Gia Martinez
Steven Dawson
July 13, 2010
Said to hear this. Tony was a good man. R.I.P. Sir!
Teresa Cole
July 13, 2010
Tony-What a wonderful man. Thank You for being so instrumental with my employment at RPD....Miss you my friend.
July 13, 2010
So sorry to hear of Tony's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Rod & Cheryl Miller, Paradise, CA
Rosemary Giordano
July 13, 2010
To the family and friends of Tony. I have known Tony along time and remember him well. My brothers and I want to send our deepest sorrow for your loss. We will remember him with good thoughts and memories.
Contact me
Robin Dufresne
July 13, 2010
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
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